26 years after adoption, woman returns to orphanage to celebrate first wedding anniversary

Cuttack: She was an infant when she left Basundhara orphanage here after being adopted by an American couple. Around 26 years later, Sudhanya Dunn returned to the place which sheltered her on Friday, to celebrate her first wedding anniversary, marking a moment filled with emotion and nostalgia.Sudhanya was aged 10 months when she was left at the orphanage in 1994. In 1999, she was adopted by Hollie McGillicuddy and Jeff Dunn of USA, giving her a new life abroad. She later became a nurse and married Indian-origin professional Harsh Dua on Oct 27, 2024.This week, she returned to the orphanage accompanied by six family members — including her adoptive parents and in-laws — to celebrate her wedding anniversary.

Joy, nostalgia and heartfelt moments abounded as the Basundhara family welcomed her like a long-lost daughter.The orphanage had arranged an array of cultural programmes, musical performances and interactive sessions to mark the occasion. Children presented handmade cards and performed traditional dances, creating a festive yet deeply personal atmosphere.Sudhanya, visibly emotional, expressed her gratitude. “It feels surreal and overwhelming.

This is the place that gave me a beginning. To return on such a special day is beyond words,” she said, her voice breaking as she hugged the children and staff.Shaila Behera, founder-member of Basundhara, said the reunion was equally special for them. “Sudhanya was overwhelmed to witness the celebration on her arrival. She was in tears witnessing such a grand welcome and anniversary arrangements. For us, seeing her return as a confident, accomplished woman fills our hearts with pride,” Behera said.

“I recognised her as she was brought here when she was just 10 months old.

It’s an incredible journey and the joy can’t be expressed in words,” added Behera.Dignitaries, including doctors, child welfare committee members and the district child protection officer, attended the celebration and blessed the couple. Many called it a “circle of love” moment — where a child once nurtured returned as a successful woman to celebrate love, gratitude and belonging. For the children at Basundhara, the day was more than a celebration — it was a message of hope and possibility.